Unhealthy eating habits and a sedentary lifestyle have pushed an increasing number of Alabamians into obesity. Research has shown that as weight increases to "overweight" and "obesity" levels, the risk of myriad health issues rises.

Leading studies rank Alabama as the second fattest state in America, trailing only Mississippi.

In Madison County, one third of adults are obese, according to local health experts led by Huntsville's HudsonAlpha Biotechnology Institute.

Think about that. One out of every three adults are not just overweight but obese, defined as having a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. Many more are categorized as overweight (BMI of 25 to 29.9), which causes problems as well.

The federal Centers for Disease Control reported this week that almost 17 percent of children nationwide are obese.

In light of these concerns, the City of Huntsville is teaming up with HudsonAlpha, Huntsville Hospital, Star Supermarkets, Fleet Feet and others to help local citizens get fitter.

The Healthy Huntsville initiative, which officially kicks off Friday, will help educate the public on the science of health, promote fitness and nutrition, and provide practical tips for healthy lifestyle changes.

HudsonAlpha is a fitting partner. The biotechnology institute is performing cutting edge research on various aspects of the human body, including causes for diabetes and some of the maladies linked to obesity.

Events for Healthy Huntsville range from seminars, to organized runs and walks, to cooking classes and coupon-clipping for healthier food choices.

Mayor Tommy Battle will lead the annual mayor's bike ride on May 5, and there will be various other events designed to motivate residents to get healthier.

Not all of us can achieve the chiseled look of a beach lifeguard or an aerobics queen. But we can make lifestyle choices that improve our overall mental and physical well-being.

Even minor adjustments such as reducing portions at mealtime and using the stairs rather than the elevator can begin making a difference.

Battle sees the weight epidemic as an economic issue as well as a health risk.

The city spent a staggering $17 million on health care for the city's 2,200 employees last year, much of which could be reduced through healthier lifestyles.